1962
Science
JFK's Moon Speech
President Kennedy declared 'We choose to go to the Moon' in a speech at Rice University, galvanizing the American space program. The ambitious goal was achieved just seven years later.
On This Day in History
1683
War & Conflict
Battle of Vienna
A coalition of European forces defeated the Ottoman siege of Vienna, halting the Ottoman Empire's advance into Central Europe. The battle marked the beginning of the Ottomans' long decline.
1940
Culture
Lascaux Cave Paintings Discovered
Four teenagers discovered the Lascaux cave in France, containing prehistoric paintings over 17,000 years old. The vivid depictions of animals are considered among the finest examples of Paleolithic art.
1846
Culture
Elizabeth Barrett Elopes with Robert Browning
Poet Elizabeth Barrett secretly married fellow poet Robert Browning and fled to Italy to escape her domineering father. Their love story became one of the most celebrated romances in literary history.
1959
Science
Luna 2 Launched
The Soviet Union launched Luna 2, which became the first human-made object to reach the Moon's surface. The successful impact demonstrated Soviet space capabilities during the height of the Space Race.
1609
Exploration
Henry Hudson Begins Sailing Up the Hudson
Explorer Henry Hudson began his journey up the river that now bears his name, reaching as far as present-day Albany. His reports of the region's beauty and resources attracted Dutch colonists.
2001
Politics
NATO Invokes Article 5
For the first time in its history, NATO invoked Article 5, declaring the 9/11 attacks an attack against all member nations. The decision led to the NATO-led invasion of Afghanistan.